Posted on April 29, 2024
Newtown-Aquila’s Nest Vineyards in Newtown has been named by the Small Business Administration as Connecticut’s Small Manufacturer of the Year. State Representatives Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) and Martin Foncello (R-107) were among the officials on hand for the recognition ceremony on Friday, April 26, 2024. Also at the event were State Senator Tony Hwang, Newtown First Selectman Jeff Capeci, and Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, PJ Prunty.
Ahead of National Small Business Week, April 28 – May 4, the U.S. Small Business Administration highlighted the impact of outstanding small business owners and champions throughout the country. Neviana Zhgaba and Ardian Llomi of Aquila’s Nest Vineyard began with a dream, purchasing the former 200-year-old farm in 2016. The business employs over 50 people, supports more than 100 local, complimentary small businesses, and works with local nonprofits.
“What a wonderful achievement for Aquila’s Nest. They are a great example of how small business can transform have such a positive impact on the local economy,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “We need to attract and cultivate small businesses, like woman-owned Aqulia’s Nest, to thrive in our state.”
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. I want to congratulate Aquila’s Nest for their entrepreneurship in making their vineyard a place to unwind and get together with friends. They not only grow their own grapes and produce wine, but they host other small businesses through crafting events, food trucks, and musical performances to spur further economic growth in Connecticut,” said Foncello.
The 4,000-square foot steel barn-like winery shares production space with a 75-seat wine bar and tasting room which opens to an outdoor seating terrace overlooking the vineyards.
Small businesses account for 48% of all workers in Connecticut.
Aquila’s Nest is a Climate Neutral Certified business, in part by using non-plastic glassware and compostable food boxes, utensils and cups. Fallen wood across their 40 acres property is used for the winery’s wood burning stoves, and outdoor fire pits. They are implementing plans to reduce future impact by converting into a 100% solar powered operation. They are also reducing waste from plastic water bottle usage 50% by placing tap water pitchers in all visitor areas.
Zhgaba will be awarded a plaque next week, and advance to be considered for national SBA honors, with all other Connecticut award winners at a ceremony next week in Cromwell.